Presentation Is a Performance

for Retail News Magazine 9/2022

You Are the Content of the Presentation—So You Must Step Into It Fully.

“Integrity is choosing courage over comfort.”— Brené Brown

I often hear clients say how one presentation was amazing, while another nearly put them to sleep. The truth is—it’s not about the content itself, because even the driest information can be delivered in an engaging, entertaining way.

It all comes down to the presenter:

• Their preparation,

• Their ability to connect with the audience,

• Their communication skills.

If you use outdated methods like “writing everything you want to say on a slide,” not only will you lose your audience’s attention, but they’ll also retain nothing—except the feeling of boredom.

BE YOUR OWN MEDIATOR

It can be hard, especially within rigid corporate expectations, to feel at ease. But the more authentic you are, the better your message will come across.

If wearing a suit makes you uncomfortable, take it off. A smart-casual outfit might ease your nerves—and remove one mental barrier.

The more genuinely yourself you are, the less energy you'll waste on self-consciousness. Instead, you can focus fully on the message you want to convey.

Authenticity is rare these days—and it stands out.

USE ANALOGIES

Can your audience really imagine what you mean?

Experts often operate with different vocabulary and conceptual frameworks than clients do. That’s why analogies and relatable comparisons are so powerful.

Use phrases like, “It’s like when…” and draw from everyday life. These not only help with understanding, they can even get a genuine laugh from the audience.

CREATIVITY IS NOT JUST FOR ARTISTS

The key question is always: “What’s a different way to say this?”

Creativity doesn’t belong only to artists. It’s the ability to think beyond established norms. That’s vital in science, business, and economics too.

Without innovative thinking, society doesn’t move forward.

So maybe you’ve got a bold idea waiting inside you.Now’s the time to use it.All it takes is courage.

COURAGE

Courage is the ability to be vulnerable.Although vulnerability is often seen as weakness, in reality, it can mean the bravery to try something new.

And that’s what many highly skilled professionals—especially in Czech culture—often lack.

But we’re a creative nation.Even if originality isn’t always understood at first, it will definitely be remembered.

NONVERBAL COMMUNICATION

Equally important is your body language.

There’s a big difference between:

• Standing with your chest open, shoulders back, claiming your space…

• …versus hunching over, hands at your neck, and avoiding eye contact.

PRESENTATION IS PERFORMANCE

Think of a world-class violinist.They don’t stand stiffly, moving their bow half-heartedly.

They move with passion, synchronized with every note.Likewise, a ballerina uses her entire expression to elevate her dance.A swan doesn’t wear Cinderella’s dress.

Every detail matters—down to the smallest gesture.A presentation is not just about sharing slides. It’s a performance.And it requires stepping outside your comfort zone.